Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working – Fix

You open up the freezer door, expecting to grab some ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth. But instead of being greeted by frosty air, you feel…warmth? Houston, we have a problem.

If you’re like me and have a Samsung RB215LASH bottom-mount fridge freezer, you know how annoying it is when the freezer stops freezing. No ice cream, no frozen veggies, no chillin’ beverages. It’s enough to ruin anyone’s day!

But don’t panic just yet. In this handy guide, we’ll walk through how to troubleshoot a Samsung RB215LASH freezer not working.

Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working – Fix

Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working

I’ll explain common causes, easy DIY fixes, and when it’s time to call in the pros. Let’s dig in and get your freezer back to being an icy-cold paradise!

Get to Know Your Samsung RB215LASH Fridge Freezer

First things first, let’s get familiar with this Samsung model. The RB215LASH is a bottom-mount or bottom-freezer fridge. That means the colder freezer section is located under the refrigerator section.

Some quick specs on the RB215LASH:

  • Total capacity: 20.9 cubic feet
  • Bottom-mount freezer section
  • Through-the-door ice and water dispenser
  • LED lighting
  • Tempered glass shelves
  • Released by Samsung in 2010

This fridge uses a linear compressor which runs more quietly and has a longer lifespan than older reciprocating compressors. The freezer compartment has a storage capacity of around 7 cubic feet.

Now that you know a bit about your machine, let’s move on to troubleshooting that warm freezer.

Why Is My Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working?

When your Samsung fridge freezer stops chilling properly, there are a handful of possible culprits to blame. Let’s look at the most common causes of a warm freezer:

  • Power Problems: If the outlet is dead, the appliance is unplugged, or you have an electrical issue, the freezer won’t turn on.
  • Compressor Failure: The compressor uses refrigerant to cool the unit. If it’s broken, the freezer won’t get cold.
  • Defrost System Issue: If the defrost timer or heater has problems, ice can build up and prevent cooling.
  • Control Board Glitch: The main control board can malfunction and disrupt the compressor and temperature controls.
  • Faulty Thermistor: This sensor monitors temperature. If it fails, the freezer won’t know when to kick on the compressor.
  • Refrigerant Leak: Leaks in the sealed system cause low refrigerant levels that prevent freezing.

Now that you know the usual suspects, it’s time to start sleuthing! Let’s go through some troubleshooting steps to pinpoint the issue.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide to Fix Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working:

Grab your detective hat and magnifying glass. We’re going to methodically troubleshoot that warm freezer section to find the culprit.

  • 1. Check the Power

Make sure the fridge is plugged in and the outlet is working. Try another appliance in the outlet or test with a voltage meter. Check circuit breakers and fuses. Is the condenser coil accessible? Give it a visual inspection for dirt buildup.

  • 2. Open the Freezer Door

Grab a frozen item you know should be rock solid frozen. Check if it’s starting to thaw. Feel inside for cold air circulation. Give the freezer a smell test for odors indicating spoilage.

  • 3. Inspect the Door Seals

Make sure the rubber gasket seals around the freezer door aren’t cracked or peeling away. Damaged seals let precious cold air leak out.

  • 4. Test the Thermistor

The thermistor is a small temperature sensor that tells the fridge it’s time to kick on the compressor. Use a multimeter to test it and replace if faulty.

  • 5. Check the Defrost System

See if there’s any frost buildup indicating a defrost issue. Test components like the defrost timer and heater. Replace any faulty parts.

  • 6. Listen for Compressor Sounds

The compressor should hum when the freezer is plugged in. If it’s silent, there could be an electrical supply issue to the compressor.

  • 7. Examine the Control Board

If the compressor and fans work but the temperature is warm, the main control board may need to be replaced.

  • 8. Call a Technician

If you’ve checked everything and the freezer is still warm, it likely has a refrigerant leak or sealed system issue requiring a trained pro.

That covers the general troubleshooting process! Let’s look at a few easy fixes you can try yourself at home before calling a technician.

DIY Fixes to Try at Home

Here are a few tricks you can attempt yourself to revive a Samsung fridge freezer:

  • Clean the Condenser Coils: Use a vacuum or brush to remove dirt and lint buildup on the condenser coils. This prevents airflow obstruction.
  • Replace the Defrost Heater: If the heater is burned out, frost will accumulate. Test with a multimeter and replace if faulty.
  • Check the Thermistor: Replace this temperature sensor if it’s defective. Test it with a multimeter first.
  • Examine Door Seals: Clean or change damaged gaskets so cold air stops escaping.
  • Adjust Temperature Setting: Turn the freezer knob to a colder setting and wait 24 hours to check if it starts freezing again.
  • Replace Water Filter: If equipped with a water filter, swap in a new cartridge in case the old one is clogged.
  • Remember safety though! Leave more complex repairs like sealed system or compressor issues to the pros.

When Do I Need Professional Repair Help?

While some problems are DIY fixes, more serious Samsung fridge freezer problems require a trained appliance repair technician. Call for pro help when:

  • The power cord is damaged or the outlet has no power.
  • The compressor is making odd noises indicating failure.
  • The sealed system has visible leaks requiring refrigerant repair.
  • Diagnosis and replacement of the main control board are needed.
  • The thermistor continually fails after replacing it.
  • The door seals are severely cracked and leaking air.
  • Any other issue you’re unable to diagnose after troubleshooting.

Repairs to the compressor, sealed system, or complex electrical issues are best left to experienced Samsung experts. They have the skills and knowledge to get your RB215LASH freezer back up and running!

Handy Tips for Samsung RB215Lash Freezer:

While we’re on the topic of troubleshooting your Samsung, here are some handy maintenance tips to get the longest life from your RB215LASH:

  • Keep it Clean: Wipe down the interior every few months and vacuum the condenser coils a few times per year.
  • Check the Seals: Make sure door seals are clean and sealed tightly with no gaps or tears.
  • Replace Filters: If your fridge has water or air filters, replace them every 6 months.
  • Defrost Regularly: Allow frost buildup in the freezer section to thaw once it reaches about 1/4-inch thick.
  • Level It: Use the adjustable feet to make sure the fridge is level. This helps the doors close and seal tighter.
  • Give it Space: Leave a few inches of clearance behind and above the fridge for ventilation.

With just a little TLC, your Samsung will give you many years of reliably frozen food!

FAQs on Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working:

You’ve probably got some burning questions about investigating freezer failures. Here are answers to a few common FAQs:

What temperature should the Samsung freezer run at?

  • The ideal freezer temp is 0°F. Normal temps can range from -5°F to 10°F. Any warmer usually indicates an issue.

How can I reset the control panel and electronics?

  • Unplug the fridge for 1 full minute. Plug back in to reset the control board and hopefully resolve any glitches.

Where is the serial and model number located?

  • Open the freezer door and look inside the unit on the left wall near the top. The rating plate lists the important model and serial numbers.

Why is my freezer making strange gurgling noises?

  • Odd noises usually mean an issue with the refrigerant flow in the sealed system. Contact Samsung for diagnosis by a professional.

Do I have to defrost the freezer manually?

  • No, the auto defrost feature should prevent frost buildup under normal conditions. If you see excessive frost, there is likely a defrost system problem.

More Helpful Freezer Troubleshooting Resources:

Need more in-depth freezer troubleshooting advice? Here are some of my go-to resources:

  • Samsung Support: Official product support site with troubleshooting steps.
  • YouTube: Video tutorials on DIY Samsung fridge repairs.
  • Appliance Repair Technician Directory: Find a Samsung authorized repair company in your area.
  • PartSelect: Reliable source for OEM replacement parts with repair tips.
  • RepairClinic: General appliance troubleshooting advice and repair videos.

Don’t be afraid to leverage the power of the internet to help tackle your broken refrigerator freezer!

Conclusion:

Well, we covered a ton of ground troubleshooting your Samsung RB215Lash Freezer Not Working! With any luck, you now have the info to get your unit back up and running.

Remember to start with simple solutions like checking the power supply and seals. Attempt easy DIY fixes next, then call in a professional for complex issues related to the compressor, refrigerant leaks, or electrical components.

Stay chill my friends! With the right mix of troubleshooting, repairs, and regular maintenance, your Samsung fridge freezer will be freezing food just as well as the day you bought it. So grab that pint of ice cream from the newly frozen freezer section and celebrate with a victorious treat!